Inspired by Simplicity

I learned the five most important words in the English language today: “I am proud of you.” And, the four most important words: “Can I help you?” The three most important: “I love you.” The two most important: “Thank you.” And, the single most important word in the English language . . . “we”. The first four are pretty self-explanatory, the last is the idea of what “we” represents - that we can do anything together as a “we” versus an “I” or as an individual.

I heard all of this from an eighty-six year old gentleman named Jimmy Gentry. A World War II veteran, he shared his many lessons and his story of coming full circle in his long life. With an unbelievable memory (dates, weather, images), he told of his experiences as a foot soldier in World War II, of his humble childhood – one of nine children, and the indelible impact his parents had on him (his father died when he was 12 years old and his mother was left to raise he and his siblings single-handedly).

As Memorial Day approaches and we got lost in the anticipation of a three-day week-end and the kick-off to our summer seasons, Mr. Gentry’s vivid descriptions of his experiences in World War II make me think a little harder and appreciate a lot more what those in the military endure to ensure our safety and freedom. Never one to consider myself strongly patriotic, I, like so many others, have taken my freedom and rights for granted. Mr. Gentry awakened in me a deep sense of appreciation and humility as well as a deepened sense of the responsibilities that come with our many rights.

But to keep it simple, it seems if we only begin with those “most important words in the English language”, we might really have something. Simple truths for sure but they provide a powerful foundation from which we can build a stronger, more united citizenry – one built on pride, care and concern, love, appreciation, and a spirit of togetherness.

Thank you, Mr. Gentry, for all that you have given to so many. You are truly an inspiration to all whose lives you touch.

(To learn more about Mr. Gentry and his story, you can visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fbBygLCsm1g. He also has written a book, An American Adventure: The Living Legacy of Jimmy Gentry available at http://franklinsprings.com/allfilms/an-american-adventure.html/ )